TOP 5 spots on Mangalsala. Riga, Latvia

Located on the right bank of the Daugava, Mangalsala is the part of Riga crossed by all sea vessels at the entrance to the city river.

1. Mangalsala pier and lighthouse

The 2240-meter long Mangalsala (East) pier was built in the period from 1850 to 1861. At the end of the pier, there is a 7-meter lighthouse whose lights are located at an altitude of 11.5 meters above sea level and illuminate a radius of 4 nautical miles.

This place is especially attractive at sunset or during a storm.

2. Walking trail

In the “Piejūra” nature park, there is a path to the seashore with benches and sports equipment. The trail leads through the forest, past the swamps and over the dunes.

3. Concrete ship “Lady Cotlin” remnants

At the end of the walking path, 230 meters from the shore, you can see the bow of the Swedish concrete ship “Lady Cotlin”. It ran aground during a storm in 1951 while carrying salt to Riga.

4. Recreation area

In the recreation area, at the end of the walking path, you can find sunbeds, bike racks, gymnastic equipment, a playground for children and swings.

5. Ruins of Soviet bunkers and batteries

In the forests of Mangalsala, one can also find parts of coastal batteries and forts protected by the state. They stretch for more than three kilometers along the sea coast, from the mouth of the Daugava and almost to the village of Vecaki. Some buildings are still preserved from the time of the Russian Empire (1874-1912).